D-backs not in Parra trade discussions

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- The D-backs have a surplus of outfielders, but GM Kevin Towers said he has had no discussions with other general managers about trading Gerardo Parra.

Parra, who hit .292 and won a Gold Glove in left field for the D-backs last season, will see his playing time markedly reduced this year after the club signed free agent Jason Kubel to a two-year deal.

Towers did say that his scouts have heard from other scouts that their clubs would have an interest if the D-backs ever decide to move Parra.

"I haven't had any discussions," Towers said. "I still see him very much a part of this club. Having a great spring, performing well, he's working his rear end off, he's played well. No discussions about him."

If the D-backs do make a deal at some point they will target catching especially with Miguel Montero and the D-backs recently tabling contract negotiations. Montero will be a free agent after the season.

Don't look for the D-backs to part with top pitching prospects like Tyler Skaggs, Trevor Bauer or Patrick Corbin either.

"They haven't really brought those pitchers up," Towers said of other team's GMs. "Because they know we want to hang onto them right now."

D-backs, Hudson, Kennedy not talking ... yet

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- The D-backs have not had any talks with pitchers Ian Kennedy or Daniel Hudson on contract extensions, but that process should begin in the next couple of weeks.

Both pitchers have publicly expressed a desire to remain in Arizona long term and the D-backs are interested in looking at that possibility.

"It sounds like both guys have some level of interest in at least exploring it," D-backs GM Kevin Towers said. "I don't think it hurts to go through the process just to see if there's common ground. Maybe there is, maybe there isn't."

Towers said that the club does not want discussions to spill into the season where they could be a distraction so if something is going to happen, it will take place before the April 6 opener.

There is no danger of either pitcher leaving in the near future. Hudson still has another year before he's eligible for salary arbitration, while Kennedy will be eligible for it after this season. That means Hudson won't be eligible for free agency for four years and Kennedy for another next three.